What does the term "insider trading" imply?

The term "insider trading" refers specifically to the practice of buying or selling stocks based on non-public, material information about a company. This means that an individual has access to important information that is not available to the general public, which could significantly influence the company's stock price. Such trading is illegal in most jurisdictions because it undermines investor confidence and the fairness of the securities markets. The significance of this definition lies in the ethical and legal implications associated with trading on private information.

The other options do not align with the established definition of insider trading. For instance, trading stocks based on public announcements is part of legitimate market activity and does not involve any unethical advantage. Similarly, working with a financial advisor, while potentially beneficial for investment decisions, does not relate to insider information. Lastly, buying stocks after they have peaked addresses timing relative to price movement but does not consider the nature of the information behind the trades. Thus, the correct interpretation of insider trading focuses clearly on the misuse of non-public, material information.